DISCOVER THE NATURAL TUNNEL
A Wonder Millions of Years In The Making
Natural Tunnel is a breathtaking masterpiece carved by water, time, and geologic forces – and a place where nature, history, and adventure come together.
AN EXTRAORDINARY PLACE
More Than A Tunnel
Naturally carved through a limestone ridge over thousands of years, Natural Tunnel is one of the most remarkable geological features in the eastern United States. William Jennings Bryan called it the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Today, it remains a place of stunning beauty, rich history and unforgettable experiences.
850 FT
LONG
From the South Portal to the North Portal
300 FT
HIGH
Sheer limestone walls around the tunnel
1890
FIRST TRAINS
The railroad brought visitors, shaping its history
HOW IT WAS FORMED
Water. Stone. Time.
The rock that makes up Natural Tunnel is limestone and dolostone. Over time, slightly acidic water from Stock Creek dissolved the rock, and the Glenita Fault created a natural path. Through millions of years of pressure, fracture and erosion, the tunnel was formed — a rare and extraordinary geologic feature.
01 — LIMESTONE A layer of limestone and dolostone shaped by water.
02 — GLENITA FAULT A fracture in the rock created a natural pathway.
03 — STOCK CREEK Water seeped through the fault, slowly dissolving the rock.
04 — MILLIONS OF YEARS Chemical erosion and time formed the tunnel we see today.
A RICH HISTORY
The Tracks That Changed History
In 1890, the South Atlantic & Ohio Railroad brought the first trains through the tunnel, opening Natural Tunnel to the world. For nearly 50 years, hundreds of trains passed through, carrying passengers and coal. Today, the historic railroad remains a key part of the park’s story.
1890 — The first passenger train traveled through the tunnel.
1939 — Passenger service ended.
1971 — Natural Tunnel became a Virginia State Park.
1989 — The chairlift was constructed, giving visitors a new way to experience the tunnel.
EXPERIENCE THE WONDER
A Journey to the Tunnel.
Whether you hike, ride, or explore, each path to the Natural Tunnel offers a unique perspective on this incredible place.
Walk The Tunnel Trail
A scenic hike takes you to the tunnel floor, where you’ll stand in the cool shadow of towering 300-foot limestone walls.
Ride The Chairlift
Take in breathtaking views on the chairlift (when available) for an unforgettable descent to the tunnel.
Discover Stock Creek Trail
Hike to the North Portal, explore a lush forested trail and enjoy an abundance of plant and wildlife along the way.